Apatura, a specialist in renewable energy storage, has received planning approval for what will be the largest stand-alone Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Scotland to date. The project will be located in Port Glasgow, with a capacity of 700 megawatts (MW). 

According to Apatura, once operational, the BESS will contribute significantly to Scotland’s goal of generating 50% of its total energy consumption from renewable sources. By 2050, Scotland aims to nearly fully decarbonize its energy system. BESS technology allows for the storage of electricity during periods of high generation and low demand, which can then be released back into the grid during peak demand periods. 

The company states that this project will not only enhance the resilience of Scotland’s energy grid but also bring local employment opportunities and establish a Community Benefits Fund. Jobs will be created directly through construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning phases, while additional employment will arise indirectly through supply chains and related services. 

Andrew Philpott, Apatura’s Director of Development, emphasized the importance of the BESS: “Our BESS plays a crucial role in modern energy management, especially in the context of renewable energy integration and grid stability. It is central to our goal of enhancing the renewable energy infrastructure in Scotland and follows on from a number of recent successful planning consents. This scheme will help deliver stable energy prices, leading to reduced bills, taking the pressure off households while at the same time increasing energy security. We are determined to deliver reliable, clean energy to communities across the country and this latest planning consent does just that.” 

With this latest development, Apatura is positioning itself at the forefront of Scotland’s energy transition, contributing both to environmental goals and local economic growth. The Port Glasgow BESS is expected to play a vital role in supporting the country’s renewable energy ambitions and ensuring long-term energy stability.